37 Deaths Due to Fake Alcohol in Istanbul

The Istanbul Governorship announced that 37 out of 73 people who sought hospital treatment for suspected fake alcohol poisoning since November 1 have died. This highlights that the consumption of fake alcohol remains a serious health issue in Turkey, particularly in major cities and tourist areas, where such incidents are frequently reported.

Fake Alcohol and the Methanol Risk:

Fake alcohol typically contains toxic substances such as methanol (wood alcohol) and is produced through uncontrolled methods. Methanol, which is used instead of ethanol (the normal drinking alcohol), is highly harmful to human health. Even in low doses, methanol can lead to blindness, organ failure, coma, and death. Methanol is colorless and odorless, making it difficult for consumers to detect and avoid these dangerous substances.

The Situation in Turkey:

The production of fake alcohol is often widespread due to unregulated production and smuggling. This alcohol is usually homemade or illegally produced and sold after being mixed with low-quality alcohol. Since the early 2020s, there has been an increase in cases of poisoning and death caused by fake alcohol. Such incidents, particularly during the summer months in tourist areas, are frequently reported in the media.

Deaths Caused by Fake Alcohol:

Every year, dozens of people in Turkey die due to fake alcohol consumption. During the summer of 2021, numerous cases of fake alcohol poisoning were reported in tourist destinations such as Antalya and Muğla, drawing significant media attention. These deaths highlight the dangers of consuming alcohol under unsafe conditions.

Symptoms of Fake Alcohol Poisoning:

Common symptoms of poisoning from fake alcohol include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Dizziness
• Breathing difficulties
• Vision problems (e.g., blurred vision or blindness)
• Severe liver and kidney damage
• Fainting, coma

Causes of Fake Alcohol Poisoning:

1. Illegal Production and Sale: Fake alcohol is typically produced illegally in uncontrolled and unsanitary environments. This alcohol is sold at low prices, leading consumers to purchase it more frequently.
2. Use of Methanol: Methanol is sometimes used in place of ethanol or mixed with ethanol in fake alcoholic beverages. Methanol is highly toxic and can cause fatal effects, making its presence a significant risk.
3. Low Prices: Fake alcohol is often sold at much lower prices than branded alcoholic beverages. This price difference encourages particularly low-income groups to consume fake alcohol, increasing the risk of poisoning.

Preventive Measures and Solutions:

In Turkey, there are various laws and regulations in place to prevent the production and consumption of fake alcohol. However, the effectiveness of these regulations is not always sufficient. To address the problem, efforts should be made to increase inspections, combat smuggling, and raise public awareness about the dangers of fake alcohol. Furthermore, legal regulations and public education campaigns are crucial to ensuring alcohol consumption is safe and healthy.

In conclusion, poisoning and death caused by fake alcohol remain a significant health issue in Turkey. More measures need to be taken, including increasing public awareness, tightening inspections, and addressing the underlying problems related to fake alcohol production and consumption.